I agree with the obstruction calls, the centre line thing, and the goalie pad reduction, but I stand by my stated opinion on OT and shoot-outs. The clutch and grab aspects of the NHL for many years slowed the game to a crawl, increased thuggery, and frustrated refs who couldn't call a fair game.

I prefer international ice sizes too, and the NHL missed its chance to institute the larger ice during the year off. In some arenas it would cost too many seats and too much engineering, or so some say. My thinking is a larger ice surface would open the game up a bit, especially with today's seemingly huge players, and reduce the anti-positional crowding along the boards.

Another thought...it's been a long time since I've seen a good clean hip check like we used to see in the lighter padding days. Is there a connection?

Peace, Mooh.